Penne Pasta with Homemade Basil Pesto and Burrata

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with our delectable Penne Pasta with Homemade Basil Pesto and Burrata recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines the bold taste of fresh basil pesto with the creamy delight of burrata cheese, all tossed together with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will take your taste buds on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy.

Ingredients

• For the Homemade Basil Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
• For Assembling:
  • 8 oz burrata cheese
  • Extra basil leaves for garnishing
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Homemade Basil Pesto:
   • In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
   • Slowly add in the olive oil while the processor is running, until well blended and smooth.
   • Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust to taste and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
   • Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions for al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
3. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
   • Return the drained pasta to the pot.
   • Add the homemade basil pesto to the pasta. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated, adding a little pasta water if necessary to thin out the sauce.
4. Serve:
   • Divide the pasta between serving plates.
   • Tear the burrata into pieces and divide it among the plates, placing on top of the pesto pasta.
   • Garnish with extra basil leaves and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors and the creamy texture of the burrata cheese. A perfect dish for both weekday dinners and special occasions!

Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves and high-quality extra-virgin olive oil.
• Pasta Water is Key: Don’t forget to reserve pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency of your sauce.
• Go for Quality Parmesan: Invest in good-quality Parmesan cheese for your pesto for a richer taste.

Conclusion

“Penne Pasta with Homemade Basil Pesto and Burrata” is an exquisite dish that combines simple, fresh ingredients to create a burst of Italian flavors. The creamy burrata adds a luxurious feel to every bite, making it a dish that’s sure to impress. Remember, the key to this dish is the freshness of the basil and the quality of the burrata. Serve this up at your next dinner party and watch your guests be delighted by the vibrant flavors and elegant presentation.